**Government Targets Sick Leave Abuse as Unions Demand Safeguards**
The government of Cyprus is set to engage in discussions with trade unions next month regarding the regulations surrounding sick leave in the public sector. Justice Minister Costas Fitiris confirmed on Wednesday that these talks will take place after the completion of consultations with relevant ministries and the preparation of a final proposal.
Fitiris emphasized that the primary focus of the government is to address the misuse of sick leave rather than to implement a comprehensive overhaul of the existing system. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns about public sector employees who have been absent from work for extended periods while still receiving benefits.
The discussions will involve various stakeholders, as Fitiris stated, “Of course, we will discuss with all the stakeholders involved.” His remarks indicate a commitment to a collaborative approach in tackling the issue of sick leave abuse.
Stratis Mattheou, the secretary-general of the public sector union Pasydy, noted that the union had previously discussed the sick leave issue with Fitiris during a meeting last month. According to Mattheou, the minister clarified that his focus is on addressing specific cases of abuse rather than implementing blanket changes to sick leave policies. “He is not considering horizontal cuts on the issue of sick leave,” Mattheou confirmed.
While Pasydy supports efforts to curb misuse, there is a strong emphasis on protecting the rights of workers who suffer from chronic illnesses. Mattheou expressed the union's concern, stating, “Our concern as Pasydy is not to affect the rights of chronic patients who need sick leave, but to focus on those individual cases where there are abuses.”
Andreas Ilias, the secretary-general of the Sek union, echoed these sentiments, expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue with the government. However, he cautioned that any proposed changes should not limit access to sick leave for those who genuinely require it. “Any changes that are ultimately promoted cannot limit sick leave from those who really need it,” Ilias stated.
Under the current regulations in the public service, employees are permitted to take up to 42 days of sick leave before being referred to a medical board. If the leave is approved, it can be extended to six months at full pay, followed by an additional six months at half pay.
The issue of sick leave abuse has been highlighted by Labour Minister Marinos Mousiottas, who has pointed to specific cases within the civil service that suggest systemic misuse. For instance, he cited a coast guard employee whose medical condition prevents him from serving on a vessel and a teacher suffering from agoraphobia who is unable to teach in a classroom environment.
As discussions approach, both the government and trade unions appear to be navigating a delicate balance between addressing potential abuses of sick leave and ensuring that the rights of genuinely ill employees are upheld. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the future of sick leave policies in the public sector, as both parties seek to find a solution that is fair and effective.